Last update: May 21, 2025·5 minutes read

Pinterest Ads Formats in 2025: A Complete Guide for Marketers

Pinterest is no longer just for inspiration—it’s a performance marketing powerhouse. Discover 7 ad formats, from AR Try On to shoppable Idea Ads, and learn how Pinterest drives high-intent traffic and sales in 2025.

Manisha Saini
Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
Leszek Dudkiewicz
Reviewed by Leszek Dudkiewicz , Digital Growth Manager
As seen on:
Table of Contents
    Share:

    If you are still thinking Pinterest is just a haven for DIY crafts and wedding mood boards… It’s time for a serious update.

    In 2025, Pinterest will quietly become a high-intent advertising goldmine, especially for e-commerce brands. Why? Because users come here with a purpose: to plan, to dream, and most importantly, to buy.

    Pinterest ads don’t just interrupt; they inspire. And with new formats that blend seamlessly into organic content, it’s easier than ever to reach users where they’re already looking for ideas.

    Let’s break down the major ad formats on Pinterest in 2025, what they do, and how to use them effectively.

    Key takeaways

    • Pinterest in 2025 is a full-fledged performance marketing platform, not just a place for inspiration. Users come with the intent, especially to shop.
    • There are 7 main Pinterest ad formats you can use: Standard Pins, Video Pins, Idea Ads, Carousels, Shopping Ads, Collection Ads, and AR Try On Ads.
    • Standard Pins and Video Pins are great for traffic and awareness, especially when you use vertical visuals, clear CTAs, and engaging motion in the first few seconds.
    • Idea Ads combine storytelling and conversions—perfect for tutorials, recipes, and influencer partnerships with clickable links.
    • Carousels and Collection Ads allow you to showcase multiple products or tell a visual story, helping brands sell more with context.
    • Pinterest now supports direct links in Idea Ads, “Shop the Look” features, and enhanced AR and predictive targeting tools, making it even more brand- and conversion-friendly.

    Turn product images into catalog ads. Automatically!

    1. Standard pin ads (a.k.a. promoted pins)

    These are Pinterest’s bread and butter.

    What are they?

    Visually identical to regular pins, but they are paid placements shown to users beyond your followers. They appear in home feeds, search results, and category feeds.

    It is best for: Driving traffic, product discovery, and awareness.

    Technical Specs:

    • File type: .PNG or .JPEG
    • Aspect ratio: 2:3 (recommended 1000 x 1500 px)
    • File size: Max 20MB
    • Headline: Up to 100 characters
    • Description: Up to 500 characters
    • Destination URL: Required

    The pro tip for you here is to use vertical images (2:3 ratio), include branding early, and add overlay text to make your message crystal clear. Pins with strong lifestyle imagery and call-to-action overlays tend to perform best.

    2. Video pin ads

    Static images are nice. But motion? That’s magic.

    These are promoted video Pins that autoplay in users' feeds. They can be short and snappy (4–15 seconds) or long-form (up to 30 minutes), but shorter typically performs better.

    It is perfect for engagement, storytelling, and showcasing products in action.

    Technical Specs:

    • File type: .MP4, .MOV or .M4V
    • Aspect ratio: 1:1, 2:3, or 9:16
    • Duration: 4 seconds to 15 minutes (optimal: 6–15 seconds)
    • File size: Max 2GB
    • Resolution: Minimum 240p
    • Sound: Optional (autoplay is muted)

    To get the best out of it, use subtitles. Pinterest users often browse with the sound off. Lead with movement in the first few seconds to hook viewers.

    3. Idea ads (Formerly idea pins)

    Pinterest meets TikTok, minus the dance challenges.

    Multi-page video content that combines visuals, text, and stickers. Think of them as interactive mini-stories. These now include paid placement and links, making them super conversion-friendly in 2025.

    It is best if you prefer brand storytelling, how-tos, recipes, tutorials, and influencers.

    Technical Specs:

    • Pages: Up to 20
    • File type: Video (.MP4), images (.JPEG/.PNG)
    • Aspect ratio: 9:16 (recommended 1080 x 1920 px)
    • Duration: 60 seconds max per page (ideal: 15–30 seconds)
    • Stickers & Tags: Product tags, topic tags, paid partnerships
    • Clickable links: Supported (as of 2025)
    • Sound: Recommended

    The expert tip to perform well here is to collaborate with creators. Pinterest’s paid partnership tool lets brands team up with influencers for co-branded Idea Ads that feel authentic and perform beautifully.

    4. Carousel ads

    Why show one image when you can show five?

    A swipeable set of up to 5 images within one Pin. Each card can have its image, headline, description, and link. It is good for product catalogs, collection launches, and storytelling across multiple visuals.

    Technical Specs:

    • Cards: 2–5 images per carousel
    • File type: .PNG or .JPEG
    • Aspect ratio: 1:1 or 2:3
    • File size: Max 20MB per card
    • Headline: Up to 100 characters per card
    • Description: Up to 500 characters
    • Destination URL: Optional per card

    Make sure every card tells part of the story or showcases a different benefit or product. Uniform dimensions = polished look.

    5. Shopping ads

    Pinterest’s not-so-secret weapon for ecommerce.

    These pull directly from your product catalog and dynamically promote items based on user behavior and keywords. They show product info like price, availability, and title, just like a mini-storefront.

    It is best for direct product sales, retargeting, and dynamic product ads.

    Technical Specs:

    • Product feed: Integrated via catalog (.CSV, .TSV, or XML)
    • Image size: Minimum 1000 x 1500 px
    • Product details: Title, description, price, availability
    • File type: .JPEG or .PNG
    • AR & “Shop the Look”: Supported in 2025

    Make sure your product feed is clean and optimized—high-quality images, clear pricing, and proper tagging matter. Pinterest also now supports “Shop the Look,” which tags multiple products in one Pin.

    6. Collection ads

    Visual storytelling meets seamless shopping.

    What are they?

    A large featured image or video, followed by a row of smaller product images. Tapping it opens a full-screen shopping experience.

    It is good for showcasing multiple products in context, like a lookbook, room setup, or tutorial.

    Technical Specs:

    • Main asset: 1 hero image or video
    • Supporting assets: 3–25 product images
    • Aspect ratio: Main = 1:1 or 2:3; products = 1:1
    • File type: .JPEG, .PNG (images); .MP4 (video)
    • File size: Max 10MB (images); Max 2GB (video)
    • Destination URL: Required for each product

    Pro tip: Use a video or lifestyle image as your main asset. Then pair it with 3–25 individual product shots to help users shop directly from the visual story.

    7. Try on product pins (AR Ads)

    Pinterest will be dabbling in the future, and it looks pretty fabulous.

    The augmented reality ads that let users “try on” products like lipstick, glasses, or home decor through their camera.

    It is perfect for beauty and fashion brands, especially for mobile shoppers.

    Keep the AR experience fast and frictionless. It offers virtual try-on alongside a clear call to purchase.

    Technical Specs:

    • Supported formats: Lipstick, eyewear, and select beauty/home products
    • File type: 3D models (.USDZ for iOS, .GLB for Android)
    • Image size: High-res preview image (min. 1000 x 1000 px)
    • Tagging: Product tags required
    • Compatibility: Mobile devices with AR support

    Curious for more? Learn about the Pinterest DPA here. 

    Which interest ad format should you use?

    Here we have curated a list of formats for you to use: 

    GoalBest Ad Format
    Drive traffic to your siteStandard Pins, Video Pins
    Build awarenessVideo Pins, Idea Ads
    Showcase multiple productsCarousels, Collection Ads
    Sell directly from PinterestShopping Ads, Collection Ads
    Tell a story or educateIdea Ads, Video Pins
    Experiment with ARTry on Ads

    Create Catalog Ads with Your Product Data

    No cards. No trial. No hidden fees. It’s that simple.

    Final thoughts

    Pinterest has evolved far beyond mood boards and meal prep. In 2025, it’s a visual search engine with intent-packed users ready to take action.

    With a lineup of engaging ad formats, each serving a distinct purpose, you can meet customers at every stage of the funnel. Whether you want to inspire, inform, or convert, Pinterest Ads give you the creative flexibility to do it all… beautifully.

    So go ahead: pick your format, build your boards, and pin your way to more sales.

    FAQs

    Are Pinterest ads expensive?

    Costs vary by format and targeting. On average, you can expect CPCs around $0.10–$1.50 and CPMs of $2–$5. Shopping ads and video ads usually have higher conversion rates, making them more cost-effective long term.

    Can small businesses succeed on Pinterest?

    Absolutely. Pinterest’s algorithm favors quality over scale. Even solo entrepreneurs can drive results with sharp visuals, keyword-rich descriptions, and consistent pinning.

    How do I set up Pinterest shopping ads?

    You’ll need a Pinterest Business account, a verified website, and a product catalog feed via Shopify, WooCommerce, or a custom integration. From there, use Pinterest Ads Manager to build your campaign.

    What are the best practices for Pinterest ad creatives?

    Use vertical images (1000x1500 px), avoid overly text-heavy visuals, include your logo, and use warm, natural lighting. Keep branding clear but not pushy.

    Can you retarget users with Pinterest ads?

    Yes! Pinterest’s tagging system allows for website retargeting, engagement retargeting (e.g., people who saved or clicked your Pins), and customer list uploads.

    What’s new with Pinterest ads in 2025?

    Idea Ads now support direct linking, AR Try On Ads are expanding, and Pinterest is doubling down on creator collaborations. There's also improved AI for ad targeting and predictive performance.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha SainiData-Driven Marketing Expert

    Manisha is a Data-Driven Marketing Expert who turns numbers into narratives and ad clicks into conversions. With a passion for performance marketing and a sharp eye for analytics, she helps brands cut through the noise and maximize their impact in the digital space.

    Follow me:LinkedIn
    Leszek Dudkiewicz
    Reviewed by Leszek DudkiewiczDigital Growth Manager

    Leszek is the Digital Growth Manager at Feedink & Cropink, specializing in organic growth for eCommerce and SaaS companies. His background includes roles at Poland's largest accommodation portal and FT1000 companies, with his work featured in Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, BBC, and TechRepublic.

    Follow me:LinkedIn
    What is Cropink?

    Cropink is an app that turns raw product feed into appealing Facebook ads enriched with product data. It helps to drive engaging campaigns without creative limitations and keeps everything in sync.

    Beautify your product catalog in minutes

    No credit card required

    What is Cropink?

    Cropink is an app that turns raw product feed into appealing Facebook ads enriched with product data. It helps to drive engaging campaigns without creative limitations and keeps everything in sync.

    Beautify your product catalog in minutes

    No credit card required

    Related Articles

    Ads·Last update: Aug 25, 2025
    Facebook Catalog Ads for Shoes with Examples

    Learn how shoe brands like Nike, Allbirds, and Timberland use Facebook Catalog Ads to boost sales. This guide breaks down real ad examples, highlights what makes them work, and gives you pro tips to improve your own ads with dynamic targeting, overlays, and smart design.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 25, 2025
    50+ Retargeting Statistics Marketers Need to Know in 2025

    Retargeting ads keep brands top-of-mind, boosting conversions by up to 150% and brand recall by 57%. From social media to display ads, see how businesses use retargeting to recover lost sales and lower ad costs.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 21, 2025
    16 Best Fashion Ad Examples [2025 Campaigns & Why They Work]

    Discover 16 of the best fashion ad examples from 2025, in a global market worth $1.84 trillion with over 2.8B users projected by 2029. Learn why these campaigns work — from cinematic minimalism to social-first UGC — and how to apply the same strategies to make your ads stand out.

    Ansherina Opena
    Written by Ansherina Opena , Digital Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 21, 2025
    Weather-Based Ads: How to Use Weather to Improve Ad Performance

    Weather-based ads can lift clicks by 89% and sales by 28% by matching messages to real-time conditions. From temperature and rain to UV index triggers, this guide shows proven tactics and brand examples that make ads more relevant, timely, and effective.

    Ansherina Opena
    Written by Ansherina Opena , Digital Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 14, 2025
    Top PPC Statistics for 2025 [The Complete List]

    PPC advertising is a major growth driver for businesses, with 80% relying on it. This article explores 75+ key PPC stats, from conversion rates to ad spend, helping you understand its impact in 2025.

    Benard Kiplangat
    Written by Benard Kiplangat , Data-Driven Content Marketer
    Ads·Last update: Aug 13, 2025
    Why Your Facebook Ads Are Not Delivering & How to Fix It

    Struggling with Facebook ads stuck in review or getting zero reach? You’re not alone—only 2.2% of followers see organic posts. Discover why your ads might be disapproved and how to fix it fast.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 13, 2025
    10 Advertising Techniques (With Real Examples) Every Marketer Should Know

    Discover 10 timeless advertising techniques—from storytelling to social proof—that still drive clicks in 2025. See real examples and learn how to use them to stop the scroll and boost conversions.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 13, 2025
    Best Jewelry Ads Examples: Creative Inspiration for 2025

    Explore top-performing jewelry ad examples from Facebook and Instagram. Discover creative strategies, dynamic product ads, and tools like Cropink to elevate your jewelry marketing.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 13, 2025
    YouTube Ads Sizes & Specs Guide [2025 Update]

    Avoid wasted ad spend in 2025—discover the latest YouTube ad sizes, formats, and file specs to design high-impact campaigns that load fast, display perfectly on every device, and never get rejected.

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Aug 12, 2025
    27 Cosmetics Ad Examples, Why They Work + How to Make Yours Better

    The cosmetics industry generates hundreds of billions annually. This guide breaks down successful cosmetics ad examples from major beauty companies and shows you how to adapt their approaches for your campaigns so you can win a piece of this billion-dollar industry.

    Damaris Hinga
    Written by Damaris Hinga , Digital Marketing Specialist
    Ads·Last update: Aug 12, 2025
    What Is a Product Listing Ad (PLA)?

    Discover how Product Listing Ads (PLAs) put your products front and center for ready-to-buy shoppers. Learn why PLAs dominate Google paid clicks and how simple steps can boost your sales and save ad costs. Perfect for any online store looking to grow!

    Manisha Saini
    Written by Manisha Saini , Data-Driven Marketing Expert
    Ads·Last update: Jul 17, 2025
    Facebook DPA Design: 13 Customization Tips to Boost CTR & ROAS

    Boost Facebook DPA performance with 13 proven design tips—brands have seen up to 76% higher order value, 47% lower CPA, and 55% better ROAS. Learn how smart design can turn bland templates into high-converting ads.

    Ansherina Opena
    Written by Ansherina Opena , Digital Marketing Expert

    Start with Cropink is easy and free

    No credit card required